Pearl Jam
by Pearl Jam
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 325 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 290 out of 325
  2. Mixed: 17 out of 325
  3. Negative: 18 out of 325

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  1. JohnnyL.
    May 28, 2007
    10
    This album really shows how Pearl Jam has grown up and advanced musically as well as lyrically. At the same time they brought back some of the old all-out-rock attitude on a majority of the songs. Genius, simply genius!!
  2. KentE
    Oct 29, 2006
    10
    Great album. I think what makes it so great is the fact that their last, "Riot Act" was horrible, they tried way too hard. They finally get back to just plain old kick your ass type rock and roll and it sounds great. Finally a band who makes a good attempt at a protest album, as Green Days last disc was pathetic and laughable. "World Wide Suicide" a great protest song is a good way to Great album. I think what makes it so great is the fact that their last, "Riot Act" was horrible, they tried way too hard. They finally get back to just plain old kick your ass type rock and roll and it sounds great. Finally a band who makes a good attempt at a protest album, as Green Days last disc was pathetic and laughable. "World Wide Suicide" a great protest song is a good way to start off the album. Other standouts include "Come Back", "Unemployable", and "Gone".… Expand
  3. NathanA
    May 14, 2006
    10
    Pearl Jam is constantly the best band in the world and possibly the best live band ever. This latest record was well worth the wait and quite possibly their best release ever. There is not a single disappoint song on the album and even the filler "Wasted Reprise" is their best filler yet. The lyrics and singing are supperb and Matt's drumming finally shows his true skills like he is Pearl Jam is constantly the best band in the world and possibly the best live band ever. This latest record was well worth the wait and quite possibly their best release ever. There is not a single disappoint song on the album and even the filler "Wasted Reprise" is their best filler yet. The lyrics and singing are supperb and Matt's drumming finally shows his true skills like he is live. The final two songs "Come Back" and "Inside Job" are two of the best Pearl Jam songs ever and definitely the best closers of any of their albums.… Expand
  4. brians
    May 15, 2006
    10
    Masterpiece
  5. kyles
    May 15, 2006
    10
    greatest album ever
  6. garyb
    May 15, 2006
    10
    wow, buy this album it is amazing.
  7. nellyb
    May 15, 2006
    10
    This album has it all!
  8. Tim
    May 15, 2006
    10
    A great album - returning to their roots while still amazing me with Eddie's lyrics - the more you listen to it the better it gets.
  9. Gus
    May 16, 2006
    10
    Great. One of their best.
  10. DanT
    May 16, 2006
    10
    I love it! It's really solid all the way through. And "World wide suicide" shows todays so called rock bands how it's done.
  11. JeffA
    May 18, 2006
    10
    this album is amazing!!! definite 10 out of 10
  12. TonyA
    May 22, 2006
    10
    Never a big PJ fan I did believe they were unique and honest. I caught the live performances on SNL and about lost my mind. If they represent Seattle, then the winds of change are upon us. Audioslave and VR brought us a return to roots; Pearl Jam perfected the message and the means. Like many others have commented - this album is hard to turn off. Bravo! Get On It...
  13. superman
    Jul 28, 2006
    10
    I loved this! It's the kind of album that would make my grandfather flip out! Pearl Jam has managed to put in as much politics as American Idiot, but with a better message at the end. Those expecting a "Jeremy" clone will be surprised, but hopefully excited.
  14. DutchR
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    This album speaks to you...the lyrics are incredible. The sound is the best they have produced since the mid 90's. They quite easily the best rock band on the planet at the moment. They nothing like any other band, their sound is original...which I cannot say about some of the other big bands around today. Bands like the Foo Fighters, Chilli peppers, U2, Audioslave and Coldplay This album speaks to you...the lyrics are incredible. The sound is the best they have produced since the mid 90's. They quite easily the best rock band on the planet at the moment. They nothing like any other band, their sound is original...which I cannot say about some of the other big bands around today. Bands like the Foo Fighters, Chilli peppers, U2, Audioslave and Coldplay should take note...this is how you make a record!… Expand
  15. ptato
    Aug 9, 2015
    10
    I'm really surprised and honestly a little offended by all the negative reviews. To the people who say the songs are boring, please listen to Comatose, Severed Hand, World Wide Suicide or something and explain to me how you could find this boring. And to the people that say they all sound the same, listen to Comatose and Parachutes and name one thing that is similar between the two.I'm really surprised and honestly a little offended by all the negative reviews. To the people who say the songs are boring, please listen to Comatose, Severed Hand, World Wide Suicide or something and explain to me how you could find this boring. And to the people that say they all sound the same, listen to Comatose and Parachutes and name one thing that is similar between the two.

    All in all, this album has great variety and the band has even more energy than they did in their early days. There is no song on this album that I would rate less than 5/5 stars and I don't understand how someone could dislike this album.    … Expand
  16. Atom
    May 3, 2006
    9
    A no-brainer purchase. Should become a standard in any rock collection. Definitely their best in a long time. Maybe their best ever, in terms of a complete album. Hard to compare to Ten, because their sound has changed a bit. But it's up there with Vs. and Vitalogy, and, in total, more satisfying than both. All the tracks are SOLID. Some flat-out freakin' rock. Nothing to skip A no-brainer purchase. Should become a standard in any rock collection. Definitely their best in a long time. Maybe their best ever, in terms of a complete album. Hard to compare to Ten, because their sound has changed a bit. But it's up there with Vs. and Vitalogy, and, in total, more satisfying than both. All the tracks are SOLID. Some flat-out freakin' rock. Nothing to skip through (Unlike that Bugs thing from Vitalogy). Go blow your speakers.… Expand
  17. ChrisH.
    May 1, 2006
    9
    Uniformally good. It's too early to say whether this is a brilliant album but there aren't any duds and there are some definite high points: Life Wasted, World Wide Suicide, Comatose, Severed, Hand, Marker in the Sand is the best 5 song blast to start a rock album I've heard in a long time. Get this album now.
  18. sashl
    May 1, 2006
    9
    Best record in 12 years. Period.
  19. JAnderson
    May 1, 2006
    9
    A return to form...Best album since No Code!
  20. [Anonymous]
    May 1, 2006
    9
    Terrific. Back to rocking (although the last two did have some rockers i.e. Save You and Grievance) the band sounds tight as ever. Come Back is great gospel-ish lament for lost love. Severed Hand is an amazing tale of a bad trip...I could go on but I'm out of time! enjoy!!!!
  21. rafraf
    May 4, 2006
    9
    gran disco
  22. chriss
    May 1, 2006
    9
    its a wonderful album but/and they are still capable of more - best band touring today
  23. Ryan
    May 1, 2006
    9
    Screw all the people that say Eddie Vedder is tired. He is older, i mean do people really think Robert Plant's voice hasnt taken its toll, but he still rocks...and hands down this is the best album since Vitology.
  24. ShawnW
    May 1, 2006
    9
    Definitely Pearl Jam's best effort since Vitalogy. Social conscious songs that move your feet!
  25. Tom
    May 1, 2006
    9
    Another great album from one of the most overlooked bands by mainstream America; however, this one should end that drought and bring them back to the forefront of Rock as many of these songs are easier to accept and get into for non diehard fans. Vedder's back to barking out his signature lyrics on songs like Big Wave and Comatose, which is reminiscent of Spin the Black Circle with Another great album from one of the most overlooked bands by mainstream America; however, this one should end that drought and bring them back to the forefront of Rock as many of these songs are easier to accept and get into for non diehard fans. Vedder's back to barking out his signature lyrics on songs like Big Wave and Comatose, which is reminiscent of Spin the Black Circle with its thrashing guitars, but still able to bring it down to that soft haunting baritone on slower songs like Gone. McCready and Gossard bring on the power with possibly some of the best guitar licks of recent memory from any album by any band. Ament and Cameron are solid as usual. The first 5 songs of the album are comparable to the opening assault we heard on Vitalogy and for the first time they end the album with more of an uptempo rocker, even though it starts off slow. The flow of the album is great and its nice to see that this one is getting the attention and airplay it deserves. A crisp album that I love more with each listen. Welcome back to the limelight PJ!… Expand
  26. SR
    May 2, 2006
    9
    This is a great hrad rock album. Nothing pops out at you. There is nothing super commercial. it's just a great balls to the wall rock album. They could have cut it down to 10 or 11 tunes and it would be a little tighter but, by far and away the best album in 10 years or so.
  27. SteveC
    May 3, 2006
    9
    This is the best Pearl Jam album since Yield. The last few albums have had some hidden gems on them (Thumbing My Way, Parting Ways), but do not have the consistency that this album has. Marker in the Sand and Come Back are just fantastic songs. Life Wasted and World Wide Suicide remind me of Ten. The only songs I don't like are Big Wave and Army Reserve. The messages might be good, This is the best Pearl Jam album since Yield. The last few albums have had some hidden gems on them (Thumbing My Way, Parting Ways), but do not have the consistency that this album has. Marker in the Sand and Come Back are just fantastic songs. Life Wasted and World Wide Suicide remind me of Ten. The only songs I don't like are Big Wave and Army Reserve. The messages might be good, but the execution is not so good. Anyone who gives this album a zero must be fans of Staind, Disturbed, Lincoln Park, and whatever other cookie cutter band has been created by music corporations over the last ten years.… Expand
  28. MichaelP
    May 3, 2006
    9
    Why is it that all of the people who have given this album a 0 or poor rating have nothing of substance to say? One guy actually admitted he hasn't listened to the whole album. If you are going to criticize something, at least have the brain to back it up and take the time to really consider what you are saying and what you are saying about it. Then say something constructive. This Why is it that all of the people who have given this album a 0 or poor rating have nothing of substance to say? One guy actually admitted he hasn't listened to the whole album. If you are going to criticize something, at least have the brain to back it up and take the time to really consider what you are saying and what you are saying about it. Then say something constructive. This is my second comment about this album, which I have tempered after having listened to Pearl Jam several more times. I still believe it is a very good album.… Expand
  29. Alex
    May 3, 2006
    9
    a truly fantastic return to form for Eddie and Co.
  30. LinW
    May 3, 2006
    9
    A solid effort from beginning to end. Like all albums since vs it does require a 3rd and 4th listen to absorb the real emotion and thoughtfulness of the endeavor. Pearl Jam fans (even those who left after Vitology) will find this a refreshing album.
  31. ShawnS
    May 3, 2006
    9
    This is an overall great album. I really liked Yield and I think this might be better, though it's close. Marker in the Sand is the most relevant song the band has made since Better Man and Come Back smacks of the Stones' Beast of Burden. Very good tracks from start to finish
  32. BrennanB
    May 7, 2006
    9
    Perhaps the best CD from Pearl Jam since Vs.
  33. MarkGH
    Jun 22, 2006
    9
    First let me say that i´m REALLY glad that they got past all that grunge "rebellious" music nonsense. This guys have always been better songwriters and they are very sincere as a band and with the music they play. I´ve been a fan of pearl jam since i began listening to music. Their first records undeniably rock and still stand as classics of 90s rock (above the whole "grunge" First let me say that i´m REALLY glad that they got past all that grunge "rebellious" music nonsense. This guys have always been better songwriters and they are very sincere as a band and with the music they play. I´ve been a fan of pearl jam since i began listening to music. Their first records undeniably rock and still stand as classics of 90s rock (above the whole "grunge" pseudo.genre) but i´m much more fond of the music they pursued later with No Code, Yield and Binaural. This record it´s a continuation of that minimalist spirit but , this time , with better songs and with a revived passion for pure, simple, energetic rock n roll .… Expand
  34. DaveR.
    Mar 8, 2008
    9
    This is my second favourite Pearl Jam album. It opens with urgency, and doesn't let up until the beautiful Parachutes. Marker In The Sand has a killer chorus that's excellence is matched only by Corduroy. Unemployable is different from anything they've done but is just as undeniable. Army Reserve is scathing but beautiful, and the album finished off with two amazing, songs: This is my second favourite Pearl Jam album. It opens with urgency, and doesn't let up until the beautiful Parachutes. Marker In The Sand has a killer chorus that's excellence is matched only by Corduroy. Unemployable is different from anything they've done but is just as undeniable. Army Reserve is scathing but beautiful, and the album finished off with two amazing, songs: one, the poignant and heart-breaking Come Back and two, the epic Inside Job. There isn't a bad cut on the entire album, and it's easily their BEST SINCE YIELD (despite what others who gave it a ridiculous ZERO might tell you...). I love every Pearl Jam album. To me they are the best and most underrated band in the world, and this album certainly did not disappoint. Do yourself a favour and pick it up NOW.… Expand
  35. AlanE
    Apr 14, 2008
    9
    Damn this album kicks ass. cant imagine them getting better then this.
  36. BrianR.
    Aug 5, 2008
    9
    This album is probably the most political the band has released. It has none of the unintelligible screaming songs that require a fast car and a good sound system. This is a matured Eddie, waxing poetic about what's happening here in America right now. "Gone" is one of the best tracks on this disc, another song about driving away from something.
  37. kirks
    Oct 24, 2006
    9
    This is the band that has you hooked now or will over the next 30 or 40 years.
  38. TylerB
    May 13, 2006
    9
    Pearl Jam mixes hard rock with a couple ballads and outrage on this wonderful album. They wear their influences on their sleeve and even reference their own catalogue while still sounding fresh, new and re-focused. A must buy.
  39. ChrisP
    May 2, 2006
    9
    Pearl Jam nut since 1993. Like other crazy fans, owner of every album, many live albums, bootlegs and overpriced imports. Loved every Pearl Jam album, but like others, have been waiting for that ONE album that would make me feel that CERTAIN way that I hadn't felt since VS. Here it is. Worth the price of admission for Pearl Jam's own "Stairway to Heaven": Inside Job. Brilliant.
  40. Dale
    May 8, 2006
    9
    I wonder if the pitchfork guy is related to Raymond Rapposa of Castanets, if he is, Raymond should just disown him.
  41. OscarA
    Jul 21, 2006
    9
    One of their finest albums
  42. ArturC
    Sep 23, 2006
    9
    great album, sounds good live, energetic!
  43. AddlerS
    Dec 2, 2006
    9
    I can't believe there are people out there who still compare every Pearl Jam release to Ten. That was 15 years ago! This album rocks, PJ is great, and this is not a comeback because they were never gone.
  44. ErikB
    May 16, 2006
    9
    I have to admit the first 2 or 3 times I listen to this album; I wasn't pleased. Then I noticed that all of the songs began getting stuck in my head and I couldn't get them out. I have to say that this album is the best one since VS. or Vitalogy. Once it seeps into your brain and you start feeling the texture of this album you become hooked. I can't stop playing it. This I have to admit the first 2 or 3 times I listen to this album; I wasn't pleased. Then I noticed that all of the songs began getting stuck in my head and I couldn't get them out. I have to say that this album is the best one since VS. or Vitalogy. Once it seeps into your brain and you start feeling the texture of this album you become hooked. I can't stop playing it. This may very well be the record of the year. They set the standard in the early 90's and believe this album is gonna set the standard for the next decade to come.… Expand
  45. DanielG
    May 24, 2006
    9
    Truly tangible emotion and sincerity.
  46. Gentry
    Aug 27, 2010
    9
    I once thought that Pearl Jam were going to be this band that reinvented their sound every album, and would eventually create this monster explosion of new fans that would come around and admit that PJ is one of the greatest bands in existence. That's not the case with this band. Instead, they are an entity that allows for its members to be a part of a song writing team that only trueI once thought that Pearl Jam were going to be this band that reinvented their sound every album, and would eventually create this monster explosion of new fans that would come around and admit that PJ is one of the greatest bands in existence. That's not the case with this band. Instead, they are an entity that allows for its members to be a part of a song writing team that only true loyalist fans appreciate. This album is just a continuation for the love I experience every time I buy one of their albums every 3 to 4 years. Thanks, PJ.… Expand
  47. Spielberg00
    Aug 28, 2011
    9
    I enjoy Pearl Jam, but I found when they first released this that there were not many songs by them that I recognized on this album. However, when I actually listened to it, I found the songs were VERY catchy and I was only slightly disappointed.
  48. Ragnamaxima
    May 25, 2016
    9
    sometimes referred to as "the avocado album", this one is fantastic, with incredibly entertaining songs but they also have a deep meaning in their letters, including themes such as depression, anger and melancholy, quite dark indeed. But whether you listen it casually or deeply this is a classic.
  49. ChrisW
    May 3, 2006
    8
    A lot more aggressive. Pearl Jam's best album since Yield. The slower songs are beautiful as always.
  50. mikeb
    May 9, 2006
    8
    Finally pearl jam have realised what they do best. Stomping rock songs and heart felt ballards instead of the messy experimentation of recent albums. Now injected with 70s rock influences. Awesome
  51. DavidW
    May 23, 2006
    8
    Wonderful album. I haven't really payed them much attention since Vitalogy, but this record makes me realise why I liked this band so much in the first place.
  52. MarkA
    May 3, 2006
    8
    Very solid album. Probably my favorite since Yield.
  53. PeteM
    May 3, 2006
    8
    it sounds like its worth alot of listens. i love the slower songs and the harder rockers do rock, but with a rare sophistication. There's alot of thought in eddie's vocals and alot of feeling in the guitar solos. The only things that let the album down are the mixes on the harder songs - too much vocals, not enough drums, and that big wave song. a great album though. as good as it sounds like its worth alot of listens. i love the slower songs and the harder rockers do rock, but with a rare sophistication. There's alot of thought in eddie's vocals and alot of feeling in the guitar solos. The only things that let the album down are the mixes on the harder songs - too much vocals, not enough drums, and that big wave song. a great album though. as good as any other except `Yield`.… Expand
  54. JimH
    May 5, 2006
    8
    The album is NOT Pearl Jam's best album sinceTen and Vs. I think that song for song, Yield deserves that honor. Still, this definitely has some bright spots, notably the two closing tracks and the gorgeous rave up Marker in the Sand. You might call it a microcosm of the PJ experience: mostly glorious rock and roll peppered with bewildered frustration. I'd really give it a high The album is NOT Pearl Jam's best album sinceTen and Vs. I think that song for song, Yield deserves that honor. Still, this definitely has some bright spots, notably the two closing tracks and the gorgeous rave up Marker in the Sand. You might call it a microcosm of the PJ experience: mostly glorious rock and roll peppered with bewildered frustration. I'd really give it a high 7, but we'll round up. Anyway, why listen to me or anyone else here? You can hear the entire CD on AOL and judge for yourself.… Expand
  55. LeeG
    May 7, 2006
    8
    definitely their best since Yield. Marker in the Sand, Inside Job, Unemployable, Gone and Comatose stand out. i'll be playing this one for awhile.
  56. Matt
    May 17, 2006
    8
    I don't think Pearl Jam have made a bad album, but this is up there with their best, and arguably their strongest effort since Vitalogy. Basically, everything everyone is saying is true.
  57. Christopher
    May 2, 2006
    8
    I've been waiting for a rocking Pearl Jam since No Code (my favorite album of theirs). They delivered big time. I was ready to forget them after their horrible last album, Riot Act. I'm glad I kept on. They're just as significant now as they've always been.
  58. Tony
    May 11, 2006
    8
    Not there greatest album, however, it has a uniqueness to it like no other. The first half of the album reminds me of the hard rock days back in the early - mid 90's. The 2nd half is by far the best part of the album. Best tracks: Marker in the Sand, Gone, Comeback, and Inside Job.. Army Reserve had a great start, but after hearing the entire song, it kind of left me hanging out Not there greatest album, however, it has a uniqueness to it like no other. The first half of the album reminds me of the hard rock days back in the early - mid 90's. The 2nd half is by far the best part of the album. Best tracks: Marker in the Sand, Gone, Comeback, and Inside Job.. Army Reserve had a great start, but after hearing the entire song, it kind of left me hanging out there... I feel like the album could have been better, but overall, i was satisfied… Expand
  59. BenM
    Dec 28, 2006
    8
    Awesome. "Severed Hand" has even made into my Top 10 favorite Pearl Jam song list.
  60. CalR
    Feb 19, 2012
    8
    It returns to their routes in a way which, though not the same is commendable nonetheless. Vedder demonstrates his capability in writing some great hooks with 'World Wide Suicide', 'Comatose' and the very underrated 'Gone'.
  61. Filippos1987
    Nov 6, 2022
    8
    Easily their most divisive record, this features both some of their better rockers of their latter years and also some of their most profoundly confusing material. The peaks are incredibly high for a band that resolutely refuses to just make by-the-numbers material - well, for the most part. A greater focus on conciseness and brevity would have enhanced this record, which is nevertheless aEasily their most divisive record, this features both some of their better rockers of their latter years and also some of their most profoundly confusing material. The peaks are incredibly high for a band that resolutely refuses to just make by-the-numbers material - well, for the most part. A greater focus on conciseness and brevity would have enhanced this record, which is nevertheless a success and responsible for pulling them out of the doldrums of their early aughts.… Expand
  62. Systool
    May 1, 2006
    7
    A good Pearl Jam album, a synthesis of the harsh tracks of Vitalogy and the calm of the recent compositions. My favourite tracks : Life Wasted, Parachutes, Unemployable and Army Reserve
  63. madsl
    May 30, 2006
    7
    A rock solid effort from the grunge veterans! I tend to like the straight ahead rockers on this album whereas a "soul" ballad like Come Back almost makes me cringe! Eddie vedder is a terrible vocalist when he really tries to, you know..sing! Still their best album since No Code...even though that is not saying a lot: the previous three albums are really bad!
  64. Mark
    Aug 3, 2006
    7
    Aside from a few god-awful tracks, I enjoyed most of this album. Sounds a bit like Audioslave at times. Not that I don't like Audioslave, I just wish Pearl Jam would stick to their own style.
  65. JonD
    May 21, 2006
    7
    not a bad CD...hell a pretty good cd but by Pearl Jam Standards im rating this, Eddie Vedders voice has gone down the tube and all he does is mumble now for 75% of the time and the lyrics if you find out what they are supposed to be arent as musical/poetic as they were on VS. Ten but the guitars are great on this but once again not their best work but better then previous albums
  66. manoss
    Jun 18, 2006
    7
    Not bad,but after the first week i don't feel like listening to it every time i turn on the cd player...I guess it's too much "pearl jam sound",it doesn't differ from the previous band's releases.
  67. Surf
    Jun 23, 2006
    7
    Best album with Matt Cameron on drums. Still wishing there was more wahwah guitars like on the Ten and Vs. but I guess there's no returning to that. Other than that the first four tracks are pretty aggressively good along with Big Wave (love the ocean references in there songs) and the album ender with the mysterious airy piano licks. Good that the aggressive side is back but still Best album with Matt Cameron on drums. Still wishing there was more wahwah guitars like on the Ten and Vs. but I guess there's no returning to that. Other than that the first four tracks are pretty aggressively good along with Big Wave (love the ocean references in there songs) and the album ender with the mysterious airy piano licks. Good that the aggressive side is back but still wish they had the wahwah and the dark, mysterious quality from Ten and Vs. that propelled their music.… Expand
  68. LucasG
    Jan 11, 2007
    7
    Pearl Jam's worst record to date. Which is still better than most bands at their best. However, a lot of this album sounds like they were striving for some previous PJ sound, and it sounds like a deliberate attempt to make their music easier to swallow. Pearl Jam have never done that before. Eddie Vedder's singing is amazingly re-energized on this album, but the music is Pearl Jam's worst record to date. Which is still better than most bands at their best. However, a lot of this album sounds like they were striving for some previous PJ sound, and it sounds like a deliberate attempt to make their music easier to swallow. Pearl Jam have never done that before. Eddie Vedder's singing is amazingly re-energized on this album, but the music is uninspired and we've heard it all before. There are great tracks. Life Wasted, Come Back, Parachutes. But overall the album falls short of any other Pearl Jam experience. Let's hope PJ are not headed the direction of U2.… Expand
  69. j30
    Dec 9, 2011
    7
    Pearl Jam's self-titled, return to form, 8th LP isn't one ot their best records or even close to a classic. It's a fine addition to their already strong catalog.
  70. JorisV.
    May 9, 2006
    5
    After the horrible single WWS, I was afraid the whole album would be as bad, but it's not that bad... just turned out to be another very mediocre PJ album (again) ... I like Pearl Jam but they just keep on sounding the same, while a band should try new directions, they still sound very outdated...and because of that I lost my interest in the band. One masterpiece and one very good After the horrible single WWS, I was afraid the whole album would be as bad, but it's not that bad... just turned out to be another very mediocre PJ album (again) ... I like Pearl Jam but they just keep on sounding the same, while a band should try new directions, they still sound very outdated...and because of that I lost my interest in the band. One masterpiece and one very good album they made in my opinion, after that they've become a bore... Though there are some glorious moments like the great Inside Job (mmm great LedZEP tune), Life's Wasted, two very good songs MArker In The Sand and Unemployable ... but besides those four, they just have some good intros sometimes and good ideas but screw it up in a typical unmelodic pearl jam -way (Army Reserve -kicks off great however)... Maybe it's time to stop guys? If not plea&se another direction, PJ's stuck into the early nineties grunge-sound... Time to move on guys!… Expand
  71. DrewK
    May 1, 2006
    5
    I've only given it two spins but this record bored me to tears. There's nothing particularly bad about it (it is certainly an upgrade over the putrid Riot Act), but there is nothing really memorable on it either. It's the sound of a band who has long ago run out of ideas, but is giving it a 110% in lieu of the lack of inspiration.
  72. HG
    May 8, 2006
    5
    I don't think anyone can argue that Pearl Jam are a great band. However, the reason why they meant so much to me in the beginning was because Eddie used to sing from the heart and not his head. He would wail like he was singing from a mountain top and the band would give him the canvas on which he could paint such a picture. Ten was the peak and it gently watered down since then. I don't think anyone can argue that Pearl Jam are a great band. However, the reason why they meant so much to me in the beginning was because Eddie used to sing from the heart and not his head. He would wail like he was singing from a mountain top and the band would give him the canvas on which he could paint such a picture. Ten was the peak and it gently watered down since then. "Army Reserve" is the albums best to my opinion. This album is not bad, it's just uninspiring and feels like I've heard it all before.… Expand
  73. codedelphi
    Jun 11, 2006
    5
    I was in college during the grunge years of the early 90s and there were thousands of Pearl-Jam-U-Like clones playing the local circuit at the time. Despite this, I always preferred the album 10 to Nevermind. Nirvana struck me as having sold out and that student rebel in me wanted to enjoy the grunge movement without looking like I'd jumped on the bandwagon. So I got into Soundgarden I was in college during the grunge years of the early 90s and there were thousands of Pearl-Jam-U-Like clones playing the local circuit at the time. Despite this, I always preferred the album 10 to Nevermind. Nirvana struck me as having sold out and that student rebel in me wanted to enjoy the grunge movement without looking like I'd jumped on the bandwagon. So I got into Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. 15 years later and I was excited at the opportunity to relive my 'student days' by investing in the Pearl Jam album. They would 'rock' right? They would show the Year 10s I teach what proper music is all about and I, as their ageing teacher, would be hailed as a man of impeccable taste, a muso God right? My wife - a huge Nirvana fan who never recovered from the guitar hangover warned me against this purchase but I ignored her. This would be something fresh to compete against her awful Courtney records. Unfortunately I soon realised she was right. This is as a CD of competent but uninspiring tracks that proves that Pearl Jam always were second fiddle to Nirvana and my student rebellion was just that. Suddenly the Pearl-Jam-U-like bands from the early 90s seemed to be playing more exciting and gripping music than this latest CD. Many of the key players from the grunge movement went onto new and different projects whilst Pearl Jam have kept playing the same style as they always did. The world and its fashions move on and suddenly Pearl Jam sound like Dad rock and I feel like a Dad rocker ... which is a real shame...… Expand
  74. PeterK
    Feb 1, 2007
    5
    ..disappoitmant
  75. Alongtimefand
    May 3, 2006
    5
    I've listened to this two days in a row hoping that something would click and i would see the beauty of this album........................................................no hope. I'm dissapointed and bored with it. Why put something out if it's not stellar? I honestly think that even PJ is bored with this album. They seem a bit desparate. Whatever, i just hope these guys I've listened to this two days in a row hoping that something would click and i would see the beauty of this album........................................................no hope. I'm dissapointed and bored with it. Why put something out if it's not stellar? I honestly think that even PJ is bored with this album. They seem a bit desparate. Whatever, i just hope these guys aren't the next aerosmith or metallica. We do not need another great rock band that has touched so many people screwing up and selling out. Please Do Not Sell Out!!!… Expand
  76. ADog
    Jul 6, 2006
    5
    I feel that the Pearl Jam I fell in love with years ago is now the Pearl Jam I pretend to love now. I think they were to me something honest, visceral. Listening to Pearl Jam was musical experience that was totally unique and captivated attention. Pearl Jam now is cerebral, calculatedly political and nothing that I look forward to listening to anymore. No chance that Pearl Jam will I feel that the Pearl Jam I fell in love with years ago is now the Pearl Jam I pretend to love now. I think they were to me something honest, visceral. Listening to Pearl Jam was musical experience that was totally unique and captivated attention. Pearl Jam now is cerebral, calculatedly political and nothing that I look forward to listening to anymore. No chance that Pearl Jam will reconnect with the incredible sound and energy they once had. Time to sit on the "porch" and "rock" in the easy chair. Please don't make another album it just hurts now.… Expand
  77. SteveW
    May 2, 2006
    4
    Another dreary Pearl Jam album, with a few inspired moments, but not enought to save them from the mediocre corner they've painted themselves into over the course of the last 3 albums... This band ran out of steam after 'Yield', and I don't think they're ever going to get it back...
  78. Cables
    Jun 4, 2006
    4
    I just don't get it. I really wanted to like this album. It's so damn boring. It's far from a masterpiece, or anything even resembling a masterpiece.
  79. StevenB
    May 1, 2006
    3
    Maybe the most aggrivatingly dull release of the year so far. For people who were already PJ fans only.
  80. ChristophM
    May 28, 2006
    3
    I don't like it. Gone are the soaring melodies and the too large for life guitar riffs, instead replaced by a choppy, garage band sounding album that seems as uneven as Binaural but with every rhythm accompanyment sounding like "Spoonman" instead. Damnit Matt Cameron. I am happy to listen to all of their albums up to Yield but no further, and that's good enough for me.
  81. DanR.
    May 11, 2006
    3
    For true Pearl Jam fans that have been there since '91, this is nothing more than another let down. I can definitely appreciate the natural progression of a band and it's "sound" from one album to the next. Consider Tool's Opiate compared to 10,000 Days. A distinct progression but still keeping to the overall 'sound' of the band. Now take Pearl Jam's Ten and For true Pearl Jam fans that have been there since '91, this is nothing more than another let down. I can definitely appreciate the natural progression of a band and it's "sound" from one album to the next. Consider Tool's Opiate compared to 10,000 Days. A distinct progression but still keeping to the overall 'sound' of the band. Now take Pearl Jam's Ten and their latest self titled attempt. There is absolutely nothing, nothing whatsoever that lingers from Ten. Eddie's ability to grab a hold of your soul through his pain ridden voice has been replaced by nothing more than painful whaling. Eddie, for the love of God....let Mike, Jeff, and Stone put the music together and you stick to the lyrics. and ps.- please try to enunciate again.… Expand
  82. Jimbo
    Jun 27, 2006
    2
    Terrible, terrible album. The only reason they got decent reviews is because of the damned liberal media. Every song sounds the same. It sounds the same as the past albums, too. The only reason i'm givin it two points is because their guitar and drums are decent in a couple songs.
  83. Eli
    May 12, 2006
    2
    Boring as all hell.
  84. MattT.
    Jun 22, 2007
    1
    I was a massive fan I saw them live and then after this album and their last few they have turned into dad rock, bands like NiN still have an edge or sexiness, this is just music for musics sake, I had the chance to see them this month and turned it down, my friend who loves them went and said I was right to not go it left him cold, I loved pj but they are not the pj I loved and now I I was a massive fan I saw them live and then after this album and their last few they have turned into dad rock, bands like NiN still have an edge or sexiness, this is just music for musics sake, I had the chance to see them this month and turned it down, my friend who loves them went and said I was right to not go it left him cold, I loved pj but they are not the pj I loved and now I have to admit it, Eddie will always have a great voice and the 1 is for army reserve. Brian J stop criticising other peoples opinions, you have yours we have ours (It's called free speech) unless u want us all to like what you do and agree with you because you are so clever and cool.… Expand
  85. sickofmotion
    Mar 3, 2011
    1
    This album is the worst thing this band has ever done. Awful lyrics, predictable and safe music, no emotion. Even the artwork is terrible. I turned my CD back to the store.
  86. ducdonglong
    May 1, 2006
    0
    Ten Club Took My Money for Nothing.
  87. JHONATANY
    May 12, 2006
    0
    really boring the song sounds terrible !!!!!!!
  88. RedMosquito
    May 1, 2006
    0
    Horrible Sound, with tired songs,.........this isn't the Vedder of 1997 unfortunatly.... cigarettes and smoking has taken their toll and left vedder a 60 year old dude that is really in his 40's
  89. TitsM
    May 1, 2006
    0
    Wow they sound old and tired... people stopped listening long aqgo
  90. DaveA.
    May 1, 2006
    0
    The cover art is embarrassing. The sounds are juvenile. And the lead singer is ancient. horrible combo. vedder needs to give it up
  91. MikeK
    May 1, 2006
    0
    Don't be mad. I haven't heard the entire album yet, just the dreaded single and a couple other crapoffs. I'm just confused as to why anyone still cares about Pearl Jam. Come on, Eddie V is a pretender, always has been and the rest of the band is comprised of marginal talents. It's amazing that people hang onto and continue to praise a band with one great album under Don't be mad. I haven't heard the entire album yet, just the dreaded single and a couple other crapoffs. I'm just confused as to why anyone still cares about Pearl Jam. Come on, Eddie V is a pretender, always has been and the rest of the band is comprised of marginal talents. It's amazing that people hang onto and continue to praise a band with one great album under its belt that was released over 10 years ago. There is other music out there people. On top of sucking, they're hypocritical. "It's not about the money...but lets release 1001 live CDs which all sound like donkey farts." I use to like PJ, but they're finished, they've been that way for years. I can't think of a less relevant band on the planet. I'm convinced that all these posters on metacritic are the band's family and friends. It's not 1994 anymore, let's move on.… Expand
  92. RedRain
    Aug 31, 2006
    0
    Yet another worthless album from the worst excuse for a rock band in history. Eddie Vedder once again muses pseudo-intelllectually at a 4th grade level. He's a phony liberal, and that he wound up with so many loyal followers proves that grunge stomped on rock's grave and music will never improve. Pearl Scum.
  93. JonathanH
    Dec 9, 2006
    0
    I'm a big fan of Pearl Jam, I don't understand why people dislike "Binuaral" and "Riot Act" so much, alright perhaps some of the songs could of been developed a bit more (Riot Act was actually am experiment by the band by leaving songs in a more demo version sound) and they could of been better produced - but that to me does not stop them from being essential albums from the I'm a big fan of Pearl Jam, I don't understand why people dislike "Binuaral" and "Riot Act" so much, alright perhaps some of the songs could of been developed a bit more (Riot Act was actually am experiment by the band by leaving songs in a more demo version sound) and they could of been better produced - but that to me does not stop them from being essential albums from the band. This however after 3 years of waiting, is just a generic boring rock album that sounds like its for (and is for commercial radio). People are saying stupid things like "Best since VS" and "Vitolagy" or whatever. It just shows you who are real music fans and just people who latch on and buy and album now and then. Thats fine, as long as the music is good and its NOT!!… Expand
  94. Jeff
    Jun 26, 2006
    0
    Ughh, i get a headache after 2 minutes of listening... it sounds like garbage, if your as big as pearl jam, please record properly. I just don't think I can make my self listen to the whole record, my ears feel like they start to bleed. Both Tool and Pearl Jam debuted May 2nd, Tool is in their own league and sound great yet PJ beat them.... garbage..
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Most Discussed Album of 2006
11
#11 Most Shared Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
74

Generally favorable reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    83
    The seriously hopped-up effort fans have been pining for since Vitalogy.
    Read full review
  2. Rolling Stone
    80
    As immediate and despairing as breaking news from Baghdad... Pearl Jam is also as big and brash in fuzz and backbone as Led Zeppelin's Presence. [4 May 2006, p.55]
  3. The Guardian
    60
    Though few of these 13 numbers have the drama of tracks by the Who or Led Zeppelin, from whom the band draw much of their style, Pearl Jam play like men on a mission.
    Read full review
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